Talk about some shady shit.

The California State Athletic Commission judges chose to ignore the reality of what happened in the fight and awarded Lyoto Machida with a gift decision over Mauricio "Shogun" Rua.

The moral of the story? If you want the belt you must knock out the champ.

Mauricio "Shogun" Rua fought the perfect fight, formulated the perfect strategy and beat the champ in every way but officially. He refused to let Lyoto control the rhythm of the fight. By taking the lead in the foot work and stalking Machida but forcing the champ to throw first so he could counter. Shogun's leg and body kicks left Machida staggered and limping. By the late rounds, Machida's mobility was so compromised that he could do little to force the action.

The UFC owes the fans and Shogun Rua an immediate rematch. He is the rightful champ.

Machida knew he lost the fight although he threw his arms up in victory at the end of the fight.

At least UFC fans realize why Shogun Rua is a legend of MMA and deserves to be regarded as the #1 MMA Light Heavyweight in the world.

In other fights, Cain Velasquez made a strong case to deserve a title shot against the winner of Lesnar/Carwin or a title eliminator against Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira.

Joe Stevenson remains a force in the 155 pound decision.

Chael Sonnen has cinched his top 10 status and pushed Yushin Okami out of contention in the UFC middleweight division. Dana White owes Sonnen a lot for curing a long-term headache that had spoiled Mike Swick and nearly spoiled Rich Franklin.

Ryan Bader continues to rise although he needs to improve his footwork and striking.